Degree of success for Leeds United legend Eddie

Leeds United legend Eddie Gray won sporting silverware galore during his illustrious playing career.

Now, however, the 66-year-old Whites hero can add an academic title to his impressive CV.

Eddie was today named as one of the figures being awarded honorary degrees by Leeds Metropolitan University this summer.

He will be given his honorary doctorate of sport science in a ceremony taking place at the university’s Headingley campus at the end of this month.

Eddie said: “I’m delighted and proud – it’s also a reflection on the great team that I played in.” Other people receiving honorary degrees from Leeds Met include:

* Stuart Blackburn, former producer of Leeds-based ITV soap Emmerdale and now the man in charge on the same channel’s flagship Coronation Street programme;

* Qari Asim, a mosque leader who has worked tirelessly to build bridges between Leeds’s different communities since the July 7 terror attacks;

* Rudimental music stars Piers Aggett and Kesi Dryden, who graduated from Leeds Met in 2008;

* Mark Herman, director of critically-acclaimed films Brassed Off and The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas.

Leeds Met vice chancellor, Prof Susan Price, said: “We are delighted to recognise such a wide variety of individuals who have made a significant contribution to their field and are each an inspiration to our students and graduates.

“This summer’s awards are varied, with key people from a range of backgrounds including business, arts, law, sport and the music and entertainment industry. We are very much looking forward to welcoming them to celebrate with us as we recognise the achievements of our graduating students.”